A tampon is an absorbent material designed for insertion into the vagina to absorb menstrual fluid. For this period protection method to be effective and comfortable, correct placement is necessary. Knowing precisely how far to insert a tampon prevents leaks and ensures the device sits in the optimal internal location. Proper insertion places the absorbent part past the highly sensitive vaginal opening and into the upper vaginal canal.
The Goal of Proper Placement
The correct depth for a tampon relates directly to the anatomy of the vagina. The vaginal canal is a muscular tube that extends back toward the tailbone, not straight up, and is approximately 7 to 10 centimeters long. The vaginal opening, or introitus, contains a dense concentration of nerve endings, making it very sensitive. The tampon must be pushed past this initial, sensitive area into the middle or upper third of the canal.
This upper region of the vagina has far fewer sensory nerves, which is why a correctly placed tampon should not be felt at all. If the tampon is positioned too shallowly, it will press against the nerves at the entrance, causing discomfort or pressure when sitting or walking. The tampon cannot get lost inside the body because the top of the vagina ends at the cervix. The cervix has only a tiny opening (os) that is too small for a tampon to pass through, and the attached string remains outside for easy removal.
Step-by-Step Insertion Technique
Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before beginning the process. Unwrap the tampon and prepare the applicator by ensuring the string is hanging freely and the inner tube is ready to push. Find a comfortable position, such as sitting on the toilet, squatting slightly, or standing with one foot elevated.
Hold the applicator at the grip using your thumb and middle finger. Gently place the rounded tip at your vaginal opening. The key to easy insertion is the angle: aim the applicator toward the small of your back, as the vaginal canal slopes backward, not straight up.
Steadily slide the outer barrel of the applicator into the vagina until your fingers holding the grip reach the external skin. Use your index finger to push the inner tube, or plunger, completely into the outer barrel. This action ejects the tampon into the upper vaginal canal.
After the plunger is fully extended, gently pull the entire applicator out of your body, leaving the tampon behind with the string hanging outside. If you encounter resistance during insertion, slightly altering the angle toward your back often corrects the issue.
Recognizing Correct Placement
The primary indicator of correct tampon placement is the absence of sensation. If the tampon is inserted far enough into the less sensitive upper canal, you should not be able to feel it at all while walking, sitting, or moving. If you feel any internal discomfort, pressure, or a scratchy sensation, the tampon is likely too shallow.
If the tampon feels too low, you can gently use a clean finger to try and push it slightly deeper. If discomfort persists, remove the tampon and insert a fresh one, as improper placement can cause leaks. The withdrawal string must be hanging freely outside the body, confirming the tampon is situated correctly for later retrieval.
Tampons should be changed regularly, ideally every four to eight hours, depending on the flow. Never wear a single tampon for more than eight hours to minimize the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).